Christmas Eve hike to Mt. Yonah

Now that you've got your cards all written, gifts all wrapped, and food all cooked, what better way to get de-stressed than to take a hike? 

Come join us for a last minute hike to Mt. Yonah, Cherokee for “Bear,” an iconic landmark in the NE Georgia Mountains. This very popular hike includes a little above moderate effort in ascending approx 1,400 vertical feet over a 2.2 mile trail to the 3,106ft summit. Total distance: 4.4 Miles.

This hike is designed for beginner to intermediate hikers. The climb and distance make it a D3, but we plan to take our time on the climb to make sure no one gets left behind. Please understand this intention before signing up or expecting a brisk climb up the mountain. Yonah can be climbed by almost any level hiker as long as the pace is managed. Note: You must be confident in hiking 5 miles on a hilly trail to have the fitness level to participate in this hike.

The hike is comprised of 4 segments and will begin at the public trailhead off of Chambers Rd. in Cleveland, Ga. The first segment is a pleasant 1.2miles which covers an open wooded area, and ends at the first rewarding overlook. Segment 2 is the most strenuous taking us on a fairly eroded section of the trail with the most extreme elevation change. The good news is that this section is only .35 miles, although it will feel further than this. The third segment is a short walk to the second sweet overlook at “The Boulders” which is a side trail off the US Army training camp area. The final Segment 4 takes us to the summit only .6 miles. Before reaching the grassy field on the top, we will stop at a number spots to take in the vistas. The highlight will be the stone outcropping which many hikers have posed for pics which make them appear fearless as they sit on the protruding rock formation. After walking along the western and southern rims we will summit.  Then we will make our way back to the trail head.

283 Chambers Rd., Cleveland, Ga 30528             

GPS 34.637383, -83.725117

Directions From Carpool:

From the Ingle's parking lot: Follow GA 75 toward Helen and after approx 2.15 miles, Turn R on Tom Bell Rd. Follow Tom Bell to the Third Right onto Chambers Rd. There is a dirt road with a Mt Yonah Trailhead US Forestry sign on the Right.